Valley Communications Systems to Host AV Pathways Showcase on Jan. 14

CHICOPEE — Valley Communications Systems will host the AV Pathways Showcase on Wednesday, Jan. 14 at its headquarters, 20 1st Ave., Chicopee. The full-day, hands-on event brings together leading technology partners and regional education programs to introduce students to real-world careers in the commercial audiovisual industry.

The showcase is presented in partnership with Midwich and features industry leaders including Bose Professional, Barco ClickShare, Logitech, and Absen. Educational partners include Veritas Charter Prep School, the Tech Foundry Tech Bridge Program, and guest organization the Loop Lab, which helped develop the Pro AV curriculum being introduced to students across Western Mass.

Approximately 40 to 50 students and instructors will participate in guided demonstrations, interactive system walk-throughs, and short career talks that show how professional audio, video, collaboration, and LED display technologies are designed, installed, and supported in real commercial environments. Students will rotate through hands-on stations, interact directly with manufacturers and engineers, and learn how classroom skills translate into careers in technology integration.

“The AV industry is growing, but awareness of the career paths is still limited,” said Michael Tremble, CEO of Valley Communications Systems. “This event is about opening doors. We want students to see what this industry looks like in practice, meet the people behind the systems, and understand that there are real, long-term careers here in our region.”

The AV Pathways Showcase is part of a broader effort to strengthen workforce development across Western Mass. by connecting education programs with employers, manufacturers, and technology partners. By pairing curriculum with live systems and working professionals, the event aims to spark interest, build confidence, and create a clearer pathway from classroom to career.